A Clear Path Forward
Our admissions process is designed to be straightforward and supportive. We're here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
We Know This Feels Big
Choosing a new school for your child—especially after they've struggled—can feel overwhelming. We want you to know: there's no pressure here. Our admissions process is an opportunity for us to get to know each other and determine together if Lighthouse is the right fit for your family.
Take your time. Ask questions. We're here when you're ready.
The Admissions Journey
Six steps from inquiry to enrollment
1. Initial Inquiry
AnytimeStart by reaching out to our admissions team. We'll have a warm conversation about your child, answer your questions, and help you understand if Lighthouse might be a good fit.
2. Evaluation
Typically one day of testingEvery student must have a full evaluation showing a primary diagnosis of dyslexia. Testing can be completed at our on-site diagnostic center, or outside testing can be submitted for review.
3. Application Packet
Rolling admissionsSubmit the Lighthouse Academy for Dyslexia application packet. Applications are not accepted until all three items are received.
4. Family and Student Interview
Scheduled after the packet is receivedOnce the application packet is received, parents and the child are called in to schedule an interview. It is a relaxed conversation about your child, your hopes, and whether Lighthouse is the right placement.
5. Registration
After the interviewAfter the interview, the principal calls the family to confirm registration for the upcoming school year, provided the parent and principal agree that Lighthouse is the appropriate placement.
What You'll Need
Don't worry if you don't have everything yet. Our admissions team can guide you through gathering the necessary materials and help arrange evaluations if needed.
Start ApplicationCompleted Application
Online form with family and student information
$150 Application Fee
Checks may be mailed to the school, or call (228) 447-4941 to pay by phone.
Psychoeducational Evaluation
A full evaluation documenting a primary diagnosis of dyslexia, including every instrument listed below.
School Records
Report cards and progress reports from current/previous schools
Teacher Recommendations
A letter from a previous teacher with behavioral observations from the classroom.
IEP or 504 Plan (if applicable)
Current individualized education plans
Required Components of the Evaluation
Mississippi law allows academic evaluations to be administered by a psychometrist, psychologist, or speech language pathologist. To be considered for admission, the evaluation must include scores from each of the instruments below.
If concerns outside of our areas of expertise emerge during testing, we will recommend further evaluation by an appropriately qualified professional. The CTOPP must be current, within the last calendar year.
ADHD and other co-occurring conditions
ADHD frequently accompanies dyslexia and can be a barrier to successful remediation. Students with an ADHD or ADD diagnosis must be under a physician's care for management and taking prescribed medications as indicated. Any available emotional or behavioral documentation should also be submitted so we can fully understand your child's learning needs.
Need an evaluation first?
Lighthouse Academy is home to an on-site diagnostic center, now operating as Lighthouse Diagnostics. Testing is typically completed in a single day and includes every instrument required for admission. Mississippi requires that the final report containing the dyslexia diagnosis be signed by a diagnostician in order to apply for scholarship assistance, and our reports meet that standard.
Testing completed elsewhere must include every component listed above and is reviewed by our diagnostician, Emily Wielgosz, M.S., CCC-SLP, to determine eligibility. If testing is incomplete, we can administer the missing instruments at an additional fee.
How families typically begin
- 1If you already have a recent evaluation, send it to admissions for review.
- 2If you do not, schedule testing with Lighthouse Diagnostics so the right instruments are covered the first time.
- 3Once a primary diagnosis of dyslexia is confirmed, your application packet can move forward.
Application Timeline
We accept applications year round, with a few dates worth knowing
Applications Accepted Year Round
Students entering 1st through 4th grade are considered for acceptance, as space allows.
Tuition Assistance Deadline
Deadline to apply for need based tuition assistance for the following academic year.
Tuition Assistance Determinations
Families are notified of tuition assistance awards for the coming year.
Rolling Admissions: We accept applications year round as space allows. Students must remain enrolled for at least three years in order to complete the program of study. Contact admissions to discuss mid year enrollment options.
Questions? We're Here to Help
Our admissions team loves connecting with families. Reach out anytime—we're happy to answer questions, provide guidance, or just listen to your story.
A careful look at each student
We review testing, talk with families, and observe how a student learns before making an admissions decision. The goal is a genuine fit, not a filled seat.
If Lighthouse is not the right setting, we will tell you plainly and point you toward services that are.
One Lighthouse, three ways we help
Every part of Lighthouse works in concert so families can find the right kind of support at the right moment.
Lighthouse Academy
A three to four year remediation school for students with dyslexia, grades two through six.
Lighthouse Diagnostics
Comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations for children and adults along the Gulf South.
Outclient Therapy
After-school Orton-Gillingham therapy for students who need targeted support beyond the classroom.